This is part of our series highlighting businesses that have been operating for two years or less. In this article Kristina Roth shares her experiences and insights since opening her freelance editing business.
How did your business get started?
Like many editors, books have been a large part of my life since childhood. I received two degrees in English, including a master’s. Editing and writing are two of my greatest strengths and passions. I love to help others polish their writing projects and meet their writing goals. Providentially, my business has started growing mostly by word of mouth and is expanding as I begin to network online. When employers of traditional jobs were reluctant to hire me because I was “overqualified” due to my education, that gave me even more desire to build my own business.
Who do you serve and why?
I serve authors of non-fiction and fiction, as well as bloggers and web developers who may need proofreading or ghost writing. I also edit academic work. I serve magazines by offering articles and essays about single motherhood, personal growth, faith, mixed media art projects, and more. I am proud to help authors by offering my services in order to allow them to focus on the areas of their businesses in which they are most effective.
What makes your service different?
I bring a solid background in the English language, as well as previous experience with publishing companies such as Pearson and InterVarsity Press. I enjoy learning about a multitude of topics and that brings a flexibility to the support I am able to provide.
What obstacles did you have to overcome in order to start your business?
The main obstacle I had to overcome with starting my business was believing that it is possible to do what I love and support myself outside of a traditional job. I am fortunate that I had a master’s in English as well as a solid background of my own freelance writing.
What has been the most rewarding experience for you since starting your business?
I dearly love it when authors tell me that my edits and feedback have helped them become better writers! My goal is to help authors improve their writing to help them as they move forward with their next projects. I also love seeing my own articles in print magazines. Both of those experiences bring a sense of success and joy.
What has been the biggest mistake/lesson you’ve learned?
I have learned that it is important to have confidence in myself and my strengths.
If you could do it all over again, what one thing would you do differently, and why?
If I could do it all over again, I would have started sooner! It is wonderful to see my dream of serving writers and publications growing.
How do you keep things fun and interesting for yourself?
I am always looking for opportunities to continue learning about the world of freelance editing and writing. To me, that is very fun and interesting!
Who do you admire and how has that person helped you to reach your current level of success?
I very much admire Jennifer Harshman of Harshman Services. She has been a wonderful professional mentor and resource as I have built my freelance business.
What is your primary business focus for the next 12 months?
For the next twelve months, I plan to focus on networking and expanding my client base. I will focus on how to best serve my clients and help them meet their goals!
